The Denver Nuggets (18-13) unleashed a powerful second-half surge, overpowering the Utah Jazz (7-24) in a dominant 132-121 victory on December 31.
Denver Nuggets Top Performers:
Nikola Jokic 36 PTS | 22 REB | 11 AST | 85.9 FPS
Jokic might have needed 34 shots but delivered his 13th triple-double of the season, including his seventh game with 25+ points and 14+ rebounds this month. He’s a complete contributor outside of blocks.
Russell Westbrook 16 PTS | 10 REB | 10 AST | 55.0 FPS
Russ was incredibly efficient today, shooting a perfect 7-for-7 from the field with 0 turnovers. His three-point shot remains a work in progress, but he’s consistently putting up double-digit points in seven of his last eight games.
Jamal Murray 20 PTS | 10 AST | 2 STL | 45.8 FPS
Murray’s offensive game is flourishing, averaging 24.1 points per game while also recording his third double-digit assist game this month.
Christian Braun 20 PTS | 3 STL | 1 BLK | 37.4 FPS
Braun’s shooting has been on fire lately, hitting 72.0%. He also notched a full stat line for the second straight game.
Michael Porter Jr. 21 PTS | 6 REB | 2 AST | 31.2 FPS
Porter has been on a scoring tear, posting 21+ points in four of his last five games while shooting well from beyond the arc.
Utah Jazz Top Performers:
Walker Kessler 12 PTS | 13 REB | 3 BLK | 37.6 FPS
Kessler has been a force on the boards, averaging 14.0 rebounds and 2.0 blocks in his last four outings.
Jordan Clarkson 24 PTS | 5 REB | 4 AST | 35.0 FPS
Clarkson’s offensive dominance remained evident, dropping four 20-point games this month and maintaining his all-around brilliance.
Collin Sexton 22 PTS | 4 AST | 1 STL | 31.4 FPS
Sexton’s offensive game is clicking, and his playmaking is taking a step forward.
Isaiah Collier 8 PTS | 4 REB | 5 AST | 23.3 FPS
Collier excels as a playmaker and rebounder, but he’s still looking to find consistency in his scoring.
Johnny Juzang 14 PTS | 4 REB | 1 AST | 20.3 FPS
Juzang’s scoring opportunities have been limited this month, leading to only six double-digit scoring performances, but he’s a legit three-point shooter.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Lauri Markkanen 17 PTS | 2-9 3PT | 2 TO
Markkanen’s tough shooting night ended his five-game streak of 20+ points.
